Counselling Children and Young People Level 3 Diploma

Counselling Children and Young People Level 3 Diploma is an online course designed for individuals who want to make a meaningful difference in the mental health and emotional well-being of children and adolescents. Whether you are planning a career in counselling, youth support, or education, this course will provide you with the essential knowledge and skills needed to support young people through their emotional challenges.

With growing awareness around child and adolescent mental health, the demand for qualified support professionals continues to rise. According to recent studies, one in six children aged 5 to 16 years has a probable mental health disorder. This highlights the urgent need for skilled individuals who can understand, guide, and support young people as they navigate through complex emotional experiences.

This self-paced online programme gives you the flexibility to study anytime, anywhere, and offers in-depth training in the key areas of counselling practice. It covers fundamental counselling theories, core ethics, and practical communication techniques tailored specifically for young clients. The course also explores child and adolescent development, enabling learners to recognise how different stages of growth impact behaviour, thinking, and emotional expression.

You’ll be introduced to the realities many young people face today — including depression, anxiety, grief, bullying, trauma, and family-related stress. With a compassionate and structured approach, the course equips you to understand these issues and respond effectively using age-appropriate counselling strategies.

Throughout the course, you’ll build confidence in using reflective listening, empathy, and positive regard — the cornerstone skills of effective counselling. You’ll also learn how to establish trust, maintain professional boundaries, and work in partnership with schools, families, and community services when supporting a young person’s mental health journey.

Learning Outcomes of the Counselling Children and Young People Level 3 Diploma:

By the end of the Counselling Children and Young People Level 3 Diploma, you will be able to:

• Understand the core principles, roles, and ethical responsibilities of a counsellor working with children and adolescents
• Recognise the psychological and emotional development stages of young people, and how these influence behaviour and needs
• Communicate effectively with children and teenagers using developmentally appropriate techniques that build trust and safety
• Identify signs of common mental health concerns such as anxiety, low self-esteem, trauma, loss, and behavioural issues
• Apply practical counselling methods suited for different age groups and individual needs
• Approach sensitive topics with empathy, cultural awareness, and professionalism
• Develop an informed, confident approach to working with vulnerable young individuals in school, health, or community environments

Course Format and Accessibility

This course is delivered entirely online and includes a series of engaging pre-recorded lessons, allowing you to study at your own pace. Whether you're managing work, family, or other commitments, this course offers the flexibility needed to balance your personal and professional goals.

There are no specific entry requirements, and prior counselling experience is not necessary. This makes the course ideal for individuals at any stage of their career — whether you’re just starting, changing professions, or looking to deepen your existing knowledge.

Requirements:

• No prior counselling experience is necessary.
• Suitable for individuals aiming to work in educational, healthcare, or community settings.

Who Should Take This Course?

The course is well-suited to anyone who wants to support the mental and emotional well-being of children and adolescents. It’s particularly valuable for those interested in working in roles such as:

• Youth support
• Educational counselling
• Community outreach
• Family assistance programmes
• Voluntary child services

Professionals already working in teaching, social care, healthcare, or pastoral roles will also find this course an excellent supplement to their existing responsibilities.

Career Opportunities

Completing this Level 3 Diploma opens doors to a variety of entry-level and support roles in child and adolescent counselling and welfare services. Possible career paths include:

• Youth Support Worker – providing guidance and emotional support to young people in schools or community settings
• School Counsellor (Assistant Level) – supporting pupils with emotional or behavioural difficulties under supervision
• Child and Adolescent Mental Health Support Worker – assisting in therapeutic programmes or early intervention services
• Family Support Worker – working with families to create safe and supportive home environments
• Community Outreach Worker – helping vulnerable or at-risk children access mental health services

This qualification can also serve as a stepping stone towards more advanced counselling certifications, such as Level 4 or 5 Diplomas or a Foundation Degree in Counselling.